LYNNWOOD — The city of Lynnwood has struck a deal with AFSCME, the union representing clerical and technical workers. Another contract, with the Teamsters union, is on the road to resolution.
Both contracts expired Dec. 31, 2011, and have been in negotiations since. Raises were out of the question, according to Paula Itaoka, director of human resources.
The AFSCME contract comes without any cost-of-living increase and medical plans were changed. The only element adding cost for the city is shifting the employer’s medical contribution from 85 percent to 90 percent, from about $5,000 to $7,000 in 2012.
That contract will expire Dec. 31.
The Teamsters contract has been approved by the union. The city is set to sign off on it within a few weeks. It is also a one-year contract.
The city is taking that route is because of the economy, Itaoka said.
“We are mutually in uncharted territory with the economy,” Itaoka said. “Making commitments on years to come is harder to do for employers and workers. … First we have to meet our financial goals.”
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